Finding Hope in the Middle of a Hurricane

Friday Night I went to a Texas County show in Austin. I really wanted to see the artist, and I was even willing to go by myself to the show. 

I was lucky enough to meet a friend at the show, and had a great time. 

It is funny how sometimes you find beauty and hope in the most unexpected places. Me, personally, have met Jesus in a bar (Figuratively Speaking) more than once.

While at the show, my friend Lynda's friend Parth showed up. This guy was amazing. His presence radiated someone who lived life to its fullest.

During the concert, the artist took time to recognize all those who have served in the military and as fireman and first responders. Parth went out of his way to make sure that he made eye contact with one of the servicemen and thank him for serving our country. He thanked this stranger with the utmost humility and sincerity. In a world where there is so much hate and division, Parth brought a bit of heaven to earth with his gratefulness. I wish that I could fully describe to you the magic of this moment. It was one I will never forget. There I stood, in a honky-tonk crowd, with a self-proclaimed "Indian Redneck" experiencing peace on earth. A couple songs later, that serviceman and his friend bought a beer for Parth and cheered him, even though Parth insisted that he wasn't worthy, they persisted in toasting the man who made them feel so loved and appreciated.

At that moment in time, I felt hope well-up inside me. With all the division in our country, it is hard to believe that things can change, and people can love each other no matter what walk of life they come from. 

As someone who strives to help make the world a better place each day, it can beat you down. I am not going to lie though, seeing two strangers love on each other like Parth and this other guy, really brought things back into perspective for me. 

So I leave you with this challenge. Seek out whatever is good in this world, and know that it is not by any accident. Do your best to bring heaven to earth. Do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with you God.